Among the many "facts" about the composer's life in Schickele's fictional biography of the composer,[1] we find the following:
P. D. Q. Bach was born in Leipzig on April 1, 1742 [2], the son of Johann Sebastian Bach and Anna Magdalena Bach. According to Schickele, Bach's parents did not bother to give their youngest son a real name, and settled on "P. D. Q." instead. (In vernacular English, "P. D. Q." stands for "pretty damn quick".) Johann Sebastian did not give any musical training to P. D. Q. After his death, the only earthly possession Johann Sebastian Bach willed to his son was a kazoo.
In 1755, P. D. Q. Bach was an apprentice of the inventor of the musical saw, Ludwig Zahnstocher (German for "toothpick"). In 1756, P. D. Q. Bach met Leopold Mozart and advised him to teach his son Wolfgang Amadeus how to play billiards. Later on P. D. Q. Bach went to St. Petersburg to visit his distant cousin Leonhard Sigismund Dietrich Bach, whose daughter Betty Sue bore P. D. Q. a child.
Finally, in 1770, P. D. Q. Bach started to write music, mostly by stealing melodies from other composers.
P. D. Q. Bach died on May 5, 1807; however, his grave was marked "1807-1742".
P. D. Q. Bach's Epitaph reads [as requested by his cousin Betty Sue Bach and written by the local doggerel catcher]:
In the "original" German:
Hier liegt ein Mann ganz ohnegleich;
Im Leibe dick, an Sünden reich.
Wir haben ihn ins Grab gesteckt,
Weil es uns dünkt, er sei verreckt.
Translated:
Here lies a man with sundry flaws
And numerous Sins upon his head;
We buried him today because
As far as we can tell, he's dead.
In his many preconcert lectures Peter Schickele has revealed other information about P. D. Q. Bach's life:
P. D. Q. Bach had a substantial influence on Beethoven's deafness. This is due to the latter's habit of stuffing coffee grounds into his ears whenever he saw P. D. Q. Bach coming.
P. D. Q. Bach is the INTERCAL (a parody of computer programming languages) of Baroque music.
Prof. Schickele describes P. D. Q. Bach as having "the originality of Johann Christian, the arrogance of Carl Philipp Emanuel, and the obscurity of Johann Christoph Friedrich." The most distinguishing feature of P. D. Q. Bach's music, in the words of Schickele, is "manic plagiarism". P. D. Q. Bach seldom wrote original tunes; for the most part he stole melodies from other composers and rearranged them in often funny ways. Also, P. D. Q. Bach's music uses instruments not often used in orchestras, such as the tromboon, slide whistle, hardart, lasso d'amore and kazoo, as well as items not normally used as musical instruments, such as balloons and bicycle. His music also calls for unusual methods of playing traditional instruments, such as the use of horns in various states of disassembly throughout Iphigenia in Brooklyn. His parts for vocalists, in addition to singing, also include coughing, snoring, sobbing, laughing and yelling.
In addition to making fun of Baroque and Classical music conventions, P. D. Q. Bach's music sometimes pokes fun at Romantic and modern music, and sometimes even country music (Oedipus Tex and Blaues Gras) and rap (Classical Rap). In Prelude to Einstein on the Fritz, a man is directed to make snoring noises while the music proceeds in a minimalist manner. The "Schickele" or "S." numbers whimsically assigned to P. D. Q. Bach's works parody musicologists' catalogues of famous composers, such as the Köchel catalogue of Mozart's works.
Schickele divides P. D. Q. Bach's musical output into three periods: the Initial Plunge, the Soused Period, and Contrition.
During the Initial Plunge, P. D. Q. Bach wrote Traumarei for solo piano, an Echo Sonata for "two unfriendly groups of instruments", and a Gross Concerto for Divers' Flutes, two Trumpets, and Strings.
During the Soused Period, P. D. Q. Bach wrote a Concerto for Horn & Hardart, a Sinfonia Concertante, a Pervertimento, a Serenude, a Perückenstück, a Suite from The Civilian Barber, a Schleptet in E-flat major, the half-act opera The Stoned Guest, a Concerto for Piano vs. Orchestra, Erotica Variations, Hansel and Gretel and Ted and Alice (an opera in one unnatural act), The Art of the Ground Round, a Concerto for Bassoon vs. Orchestra, and a Grand Serenade for an Awful Lot of Winds and Percussion.
During the Contrition, P. D. Q. Bach wrote the cantata Iphigenia in Brooklyn, the oratorio The Seasonings, Diverse Ayres on Sundrie Notions, a Sonata for Viola for Four Hands, the chorale prelude Should, a Notebook for Betty Sue Bach, the Toot Suite, the Grossest Fugue, a Fanfare for the Common Cold, and the canine cantata Wachet Arf!
He also composed the religious work "Missa Hilarious" (Schickele no. N2O), which was found along with documents pertaining to his excommunication
Introduction
P.D.Q. Bach Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
‘Trill‘ is a combo of the words 'true' and ‘real'
Ahead of my time, I move with a strong will
I'm in this for the love of it, no not for the bills
This my introduction, call me P-Trill
‘Trill' is a combo of the words ‘true' and ‘real'
Ahead of my time, I move with a strong will
I'm in this for the love of it, no not for the bills
‘Childish,’ ‘stubborn’, yeah I hear it all the time
I let it rock, that's when I hear I'm too kind
I care less, it don't stop me from makin' a rhyme
Feelin' like Nav, I want baguettes in the face
Ain't as solid as the team, you end up gettin' replaced
If she fire I'll jog, but peace is what I chase
For that I'll do the race, ain't talkin' Tay, I keep a K
‘K’ could be a lot things, for me it's money
I must be The Joker, when I speak some think it's funny
I might appear young but I'm, far from a dummy
Mindset on 150 watts and yours is partly sunny
This my introduction, call me P-Trill
‘Trill' is a combo of the words ‘true' and ‘real'
Ahead of my time, I move with a strong will
I'm in this for the love of it, no not for the bills
This my introduction, call me P-Trill
‘Trill' is a combo of the words ‘true' and ‘real'
Ahead of my time, I move with a strong will
I'm in this for the love of it, no not for the bills
The ‘P’ in my name, is for patience pride and persistence
You want it? Set up a blueprint, go get it
Make sure you have a strong foundation, there's no quittin'
Once you got what you want you gotta keep it, be consistent
The way I think I'm pretty sure others won't understand
Don't speak on what you don't know, I seen this first hand
He only know hero ball, he fiend to be the man
But wound up fallin' short ‘cause he ain't have a master plan
Calm cool and laid-back, I'm lowkey on the high rise
I should make a dynamic entry, ain't talkin' Might Guy
I'll make ya think I'm outta this world, kinda like sci-fi
My circle connection too strong, no need for WiFi
I'm factual and lyrical, I'll always let it show
In my prime, turn the lights off and I'ma still glow
Got a heart like Goku's, I just needed time to grow
E4K everyday, always lettin' it be known
This my introduction, call me P-Trill
‘Trill' is a combo of the words ‘true' and ‘real'
Ahead of my time, I move with a strong will
I'm in this for the love of it not only for the bills
This my introduction, call me P-Trill
‘Trill' is a combo of the words ‘true' and ‘real'
Ahead of my time, I move with a strong will
I'm in this for the love of it, no not for the bills
Uh huh
The song "Introduction" by P.D.Q. Bach (aka P-Trill) is an exploration of the artist's identity, motivations, and philosophy. The opening lines introduce the artist and the meaning behind his stage name. P-Trill defines what "Trill" means to him, which is a combination of the words 'true' and 'real.' He takes pride in being ahead of his time and moves with a strong will, driven by his love for music rather than financial gain. He is aware of the criticism he receives and lets it slide, as his focus remains on creating quality music without succumbing to the pressures of the industry.
P-Trill offers some life lessons on perseverance, self-discipline, and consistency. He explains that success comes to those who have a plan, work hard on it, and stay dedicated to it. He warns against trying to be a hero and playing individual basketball. It leads to disappointment and failure. It is essential to have a master plan and a team of strong connections to achieve your goals. P-Trill sees himself as a lyrical artist who carries a lot of heart and passion. He sees himself as someone who has grown like Goku and shines bright like a light even in the dark.
In summary, the song is a self-portrait of an artist who values creativity, perseverance, and authenticity in music. The song may be interpreted as a declaration of the artist's identity and attitude towards the music industry.
Line by Line Meaning
This my introduction, call me P-Trill
'P-Trill' is a combination of the words 'true' and 'real', and this is my introduction.
'Trill' is a combo of the words 'true' and 'real'
The slang term 'trill' that I use in my name means a combination of 'true' and 'real'.
Ahead of my time, I move with a strong will
I am innovative and driven, always pushing forward with a strong sense of commitment.
I'm in this for the love of it, no not for the bills
I am passionate about what I do and motivated by my love for it, not the money it brings.
Call me what you will, I'm aware of every line
I am aware of the criticism and labels people may give me, but I remain confident in my abilities.
'Childish,' 'stubborn', yeah I hear it all the time
People often label me as 'childish' or 'stubborn', but I don't let it affect me.
I let it rock, that's when I hear I'm too kind
I don't let criticism get to me, but some may say I am too forgiving or lenient.
I care less, it don't stop me from makin' a rhyme
I am not affected by criticism, and it doesn't stop me from doing what I love - making music.
Feelin' like Nav, I want baguettes in the face
Like Nav, a Canadian rapper, I want to be successful and have nice things, like diamonds in my face.
Ain't as solid as the team, you end up gettin' replaced
If you aren't committed to your team and lack loyalty, you may end up being replaced.
If she fire I'll jog, but peace is what I chase
If someone I'm with is attractive, I'll show interest, but ultimately I am searching for peace and contentment in life.
For that, I'll do the race, ain't talkin' Tay, I keep a K
I will work hard to achieve my goals and stay focused, even if it means carrying a weapon ('K' can be slang for a firearm).
'K' could be a lot things, for me it's money
The letter 'K' can have multiple meanings, but for me, it represents money and financial success.
I must be The Joker when I speak some think it's funny
Like the villain The Joker, my humor may come across as twisted or dark to some people.
I might appear young but I'm, far from a dummy
Despite my youthful appearance, I am intelligent and sharp-minded.
Mindset on 150 watts and yours is partly sunny
My mindset and focus are bright and intense, while others may only have a partially positive outlook.
The 'P' in my name is for patience pride and persistence
The letter 'P' in my name represents my values of patience, pride, and persistence.
You want it? Set up a blueprint, go get it
If you want something, create a plan and work towards it to make it a reality.
Make sure you have a strong foundation, there's no quittin'
A strong foundation is essential to success, and giving up is not an option.
Once you got what you want you gotta keep it, be consistent
Achieving your goals is not enough - you must also maintain and be consistent in your efforts to keep your success.
The way I think I'm pretty sure others won't understand
My mindset and outlook may be different from others, and they may not understand it.
Don't speak on what you don't know, I seen this first hand
Don't make assumptions or speak about things you don't understand, as I have seen the negative effects of this firsthand.
He only know hero ball, he fiend to be the man
Some people only focus on individual success, and crave being in the spotlight as the 'man'.
But wound up fallin' short 'cause he ain't have a master plan
Without a clear plan or direction, those who focus on individual success may end up failing in the long run.
Calm cool and laid-back, I'm lowkey on the high rise
I may appear relaxed and composed, but I am steadily climbing towards greater success.
I should make a dynamic entry, ain't talkin' Might Guy
I could make a powerful entrance, like the anime character Might Guy, but that's not my style.
I'll make ya think I'm outta this world, kinda like sci-fi
I captivate and intrigue others with my unique perspective and abilities, like something out of a science fiction story.
My circle connection too strong, no need for WiFi
I have a strong and tight-knit circle of connections, and don't need WiFi or other outside connections to feel connected.
I'm factual and lyrical, I'll always let it show
I am honest and insightful in my lyrics, and always let this aspect of myself shine through in my music.
In my prime, turn the lights off and I'ma still glow
Even when things get tough, I will still shine and succeed because I am at my best.
Got a heart like Goku's, I just needed time to grow
Like the anime character Goku, I have a courageous and strong heart, but it took time to develop.
E4K everyday, always lettin' it be known
I am always representing my values and beliefs every day, and I make sure others know it.
This my introduction, call me P-Trill
'P-Trill' is a combination of the words 'true' and 'real', and this is my introduction.
'Trill' is a combo of the words 'true' and 'real'
The slang term 'trill' that I use in my name means a combination of 'true' and 'real'.
Ahead of my time, I move with a strong will
I am innovative and driven, always pushing forward with a strong sense of commitment.
I'm in this for the love of it not only for the bills
I am passionate about what I do and motivated by my love for it, but I also acknowledge the financial benefits it can bring.
This my introduction, call me P-Trill
'P-Trill' is a combination of the words 'true' and 'real', and this is my introduction.
'Trill' is a combo of the words 'true' and 'real'
The slang term 'trill' that I use in my name means a combination of 'true' and 'real'.
Ahead of my time, I move with a strong will
I am innovative and driven, always pushing forward with a strong sense of commitment.
I'm in this for the love of it, no not for the bills
I am passionate about what I do and motivated by my love for it, not the money it brings.
Uh huh
End of the song.
Lyrics © O/B/O DistroKid
Written by: Paul Valentine
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@scottwhiting2039
Some call this an audiobook, I call it a PDQ Bach album in disguise. It may not have new music, but the framing device involving Professor Pete’s character is well in keeping with the host segments of many albums. And it stands out particularly because of it!
@ridwancoding5646
TIMELAPSE
0:00 - Introduction
3:21 - Part The First - P. D. Q Bach's Background: "Cause or Effect?"
3:41 - Chapter 1 - Early Infancy (1742 - 1745)
9:24 - Chapter 2 - Late Infancy (1745 - 1766)
27:52 - Chapter 3 - The Lost Years (1766 - 1777)
34:13 - Chapter 4 - The Turning Point: 1777
42:18 - Intermission/Pete gets interrupted
43:33 - Selections From The Glossary of Unusual Instruments Used by P. D. Q. Bach
44:02 - Bicycle
45:39 - Caliope
46:56 - Double Reed Hookah in F
47:43 - Double Reed Slide Music Stand
48:35 - Lasso D'Amore
49:57 - Police Trombone (Polizeiposaune)
50:54 - Slide Whistle
51:33 - Tromboon
52:02 - Windbreaker (Mailing Tuba)
53:10 - Part The Second - The World of P. D. Q. Bach: "People, Places and Other Stuff In His Life"
@onceamusician5408
I gave up music at the age of 47 (yes!!!! I really was once a musician)
DAMN!!! Beaten to the mark YET AGAIN
And i insisted on telling EVERYONE
@charlesmoomaw9388
I'm a bit disappointed that he didn't mention PDQ's Alsatian friend, Hans-Jacques Pferdemerde. (RIP Prof. Schickele)
@Ekomshiro
Do you know if PDQ has anything for violin solo / duet / acompagned by piano? Looking for my student recital next year... Thanks!
@pdqbachfan
Sorry, but this is all I could find:
https://www.presser.com/164-00007-tombeau-de-p-d-q-bach.html
@Ekomshiro
@@pdqbachfan Thanks!